On Oct. 8, nine students attended a TedX conference in Detroit for a biology field trip. There were over 30 presentations/performances given throughout the day that were based on the theme “ideas worth spreading.” Perhaps one of the most jaw dropping ideas came from a brilliant man named Paul Elio. Elio has managed to create a two-seater car that can reach up to 84 miles per gallon, and it only costs $6,800! At that number, people would be making fewer trips to the gas station, and putting far less pollutants in the air. According to the projected sales of the car, it is estimated that America could save almost five billion gallons of fuel per year, while reducing harmful CO2 emissions by more than 90 billion pounds. Speaking of passing gas, it is rumored that an Elio will give off less harmful emissions per year than the average flatulent cow.

The Elio is built with 90 percent North American content. This will create jobs in the auto industry. About 16.8 million people were employed in manufacturing in 1993. By 2013, that number decreased by almost five million. Much of this decline has come in the auto industry. By making their content in the U.S. the company is expected to create 1,500 direct jobs in Shreveport, 1,500 at supplier partner companies, and around 18,000 spin off jobs across the country.

As if that was not enough to impress most drivers, the car is designed to meet the highest safety standards. Its Safety Management System includes three airbags, a reinforced roll-cage frame, Anti-Lock Braking System, and 50 percent larger crush zones than similar vehicles.

Although Elio can be purchased by traditional methods, a unique credit card payment plan will allow individuals to pay over time without a car payment. The company plans to issue credit cards for buying fuel. Every time an individual buys gas there will be an extra charge that is twice the price of the fuel amount (If gas costs $25, it will charge an extra $50 to your account). That charge automatically applies to the vehicle price and allows individuals to pay at their own pace. In short, the money that you save on gas due to the incredible mileage automatically goes towards paying for the new car.

“The payment plan is a brilliant idea because mostly anyone who is willing to take that leap forward and give the car a chance should be able to buy it, regardless of their financial situation.” Smitka said.

Elio motors may very well be the future of transportation. They can be reserved now for as little as $100 and will be hitting the streets in the 4th quarter of 2016, consider looking into this incredible example of American ingenuity. Perhaps you’ll find yourself driving one someday.